Aliens with visas of type D, Z, X, J-1 must apply for right of residence for aliens or right of temporary residence in the public security bureaus of city and county level of residential area within 30 days of their entry. The valid days of the above documents are the period of residence in China for holders of the documents.
The right of residence is given to aliens who would stay in China for more than one year.

The right of temporary resident is given to aliens who would stay in China for less than one year.

Aliens with visas of type F, L, G, C can stay in China for periods marked in their visas and do not have to apply for right of residence.

Aliens applying for right of residence must answer inquiries related to their application and perform the following formalities:

1. Present documents related to passports, visas and right of residence application;

2. Fill in application forms of right of residence;

3. Aliens applying for right of residence must also have their health certificates with them and present two recent photos in half-length, full-face and bareheaded.

The valid days for the right of residence can range from one year to five years which are decided by the city or county level public security bureaus according to reasons of residence by the applicants.

During their stay in China, if aliens want to make travels to cities or regions not opened to foreigners, they must apply in advance for a travel permit with the entry department of the local public security bureau, and go to the places after approval. Aliens applying for a travel permit must perform the following formalities:

1. Present passports or certificates of residence;

2. Provide certificates in relation to the cause of travel;

3. Fill in application forms for travel.

Aliens should apply for a travel permit seven days before departure.

Without permission, aliens are not allowed to enter regions that do not open to foreigners.

At present, China has opened its large and medium cities and most of the tourist interests to foreigners. By December 31, 1998, it has opened 1,392 cities and counties to aliens. As long as they have valid passports and visas, foreigners can travel to these places and need not undergo other formalities.

Aliens should take airplane or train to open places for their travel; without permission, they are not allowed to go to these places with their own means of transportation. For the time being, there are few roads opening to aliens.